Dr. Craig Hudson has earned a sterling reputation in the field of medicine as a psychiatrist, medical researcher, and innovative entrepreneur. He is the founder of Biosential Inc., which he established with his partner Susan in 1999. At Biosential, he is able to combine his interests in clinical psychiatry and biotechnology. For him, it is of utmost importance to provide all patients with tailored solutions that fit their individual needs.
Q: What started your journey into the field of medicine?
CRAIG HUDSON: My interest in studying medicine started during my undergraduate years at the University of Waterloo where I became interested in research science. I took a summer job as a research assistant to Dr. Phil Bryden who was conducting research on handedness. I became hooked on neuroscience, and on research from a clinical perspective. This drew me to medical school and, ultimately, training in psychiatry.
Q: What are some of the greatest achievements in your career so far?
CRAIG HUDSON: I have enjoyed my clinical work and watching people’s lives improve directly from clinical intervention, but I would have to say I see my greatest achievements as resulting from my research. I am proud of my tryptophan research and my discovery of an enzyme that helps the brain recover from injury. The absence of this recovery gene in certain groups has significant ramifications for treatment and future pharmacotherapy development.
Q: What are the biggest obstacles you have faced in your practice, and how did you overcome them?
CRAIG HUDSON: I would not say I have experienced obstacles to clinical practice; I have learned a lot over the years about how systems work and my place in them. I have developed entrepreneurial skills as a direct result of this, for which I am grateful. I have blazed a trail for myself in response to where my research has taken me and value that this has provided a unique platform to improve the lives and health of many people.
Q: What trends in healthcare do you expect will take charge in the future, and how will they improve patient care?
CRAIG HUDSON: I think there are a number of important trends that will influence the future of medicine. One big trend is telemedicine, which has increased access to care for patients, especially in remote or underprivileged communities. It allows timely consultations as well as timely follow-ups which are critical in ensuring the health outcomes are improved. Other trends like personalized medicine where treatments are adjusted according to the genetic makeup of the patient are already happening and have great potential. This trend allows us to offer more efficient and focused therapies. I think immunotherapy also holds great potential.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue medicine as a career?
CRAIG HUDSON: The best advice I can give is that a foundation in science is so very important. The impact of organic chemistry in medicine and research is greater than what is currently perceived. Organic chemistry is the foundation of many aspects of modern medicine and I believe it holds the key to the most powerful advances in the medical field.
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